“Finding acceptance has been my biggest challenge”: Jack Draper’s comeback story takes another frustrating twist
ATPTuesday, 28 July 2026 at 03:00
Jack Draper's long road back has suffered another painful setback. Just one day after speaking positively about his recovery and declaring he felt "really, really good," the former world No. 4 was forced to withdraw from the DC Open, delaying yet another comeback as his troublesome left arm injury flared up again.
The 24-year-old had been expected to make his first ATP Tour appearance in more than a month after missing Wimbledon, where he was forced to pull out before facing Taylor Fritz in the opening round. Washington represented the first step in rebuilding both his ranking and confidence ahead of the North American hard-court swing, but instead became another reminder of how cruel the past year has been for one of Britain's brightest talents.
The withdrawal comes after an encouraging week in practice, where Draper impressed alongside new coach Andy Murray and even comfortably defeated Ben Shelton 6-1 in a practice set. His optimism had been evident just 24 hours earlier, making the decision to withdraw even more frustrating as another comeback was put on hold.
Shortly after confirming his withdrawal, Draper shared an emotional message on Instagram that offered a rare insight into the mental battle he has faced throughout months of rehabilitation, setbacks and uncertainty.
"Nothing but adversity and setbacks"
Draper admitted that the physical struggles have also taken an emotional toll, describing the past few months as the most challenging period of his career. "These last months have felt like nothing but adversity and setbacks. Most days I've spent in doubt, yet hopeful that I can keep taking positive steps forward and finding ways to progress."
Rather than focusing solely on the disappointment, Draper explained that learning patience has become one of the biggest lessons during his rehabilitation. "On days off, I reflect, and I'm only grateful for the struggle and what it's teaching me. Finding acceptance and being patient with the process has been my biggest challenge, but I know I'm getting closer to where I want to be!!"
The Brit also thanked those around him for helping him navigate one of the toughest stretches of his professional career. "Very lucky to have such amazing people to help guide me through this storm, and so with that… we keep persevering. Thank you for all the support and love ♥️"
Another setback in a frustrating comeback
Draper's injury problems date back to last year's US Open, when the arm issue that had already troubled him during Wimbledon finally forced him to stop competing. Since then, every attempt to regain momentum has been interrupted by fresh physical setbacks.
There were encouraging signs earlier this summer when Draper returned at Eastbourne under the guidance of Andy Murray. The former world No. 4 reached the semifinals before losing to Ugo Humbert, raising hopes that he would finally be ready to resume his climb back up the rankings.
Instead, another injury forced him to miss Wimbledon, and now Washington has ended before it even began.
The timing is particularly difficult with the North American swing entering its most important phase. Draper remains outside the world's top 100 after months away from competition and still faces uncertainty over whether he will receive a wildcard into the US Open main draw.
His current ranking as No. 147 leaves him outside the direct acceptance cutoff, making every missed tournament another obstacle in his attempt to return to the sport's biggest stages.
For now, however, rankings and tournaments appear secondary. Draper's latest message suggests his biggest victory may simply be continuing to believe that, despite everything, brighter days are still ahead.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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